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!Xaus Lodge

!Xaus Lodge, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

At a Glance

    Pros

  • unique wilderness setting
  • only private lodge in area
  • opportunities to interact with the local people

    Cons

  • very long (almost an hour) roller-coaster approach road through dunes
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Fodorite Reviews

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!Xaus Lodge Review

If you want to experience one of South Africa's most beautiful and isolated parks without hassle, then this luxury lodge owned by the Khomani San and Mier communities and jointly managed with SANParks is the place for you. You'll be picked up in a 4x4 from Twee Rivieren, fed, watered, taken on game drives and desert walks, and introduced to the local San. Located deep in the desert 32 km (20 mi) from the Auob River road along a track that crosses the red dunes of the Kalahari, this enchanting lodge overlooks an amazingly scenic pan. The twin-bed, en-suite chalets perch on sand dunes overlooking a water hole; each chalet has a private deck. A fan will keep you cool in summer, and a gas heater, hot-water bottle, and warm sheets will help you stay warm on winter nights. A welcome swimming pool is set in a deck overlooking the pan. The attractive rustic furniture and eye-catching artwork throughout this delightful, unique lodge are all made by local craftspeople and artists. Activities include game drives in an open safari vehicle, walks with San trackers, and a chance to watch San artists at work. At night the stars and planets are bright and clear; a telescope brings ancient tradition and modern technology together as the San interpret for you their legends of the night sky. But !Xaus (pronounced kaus) comprises so much more than its activities: it is solitude, peace, and silence as you "listen" to day turn into night, plus interaction with the cheerful and willing staff, the majority of whom come from the surrounding local communities.

    Hotel Details

  • 12 chalets.
  • Rate includes all-inclusive.
  • Credit cards accepted.
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Fodorite Reviews

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    !Xaus Lodge Review

    I went to !Xaus Lodge in August 2011 and absolutely loved it. The silence around the lodge is so loud and the stars are so bright! Even though the game in the area is apparently sparse we saw lion, brown hyena and cheetah cubs on our way to the lodge. Come here to recharge and relax.

    by Robert_Rothe, 10/25/11
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    !Xaus Lodge Review

    I really enjoyed my stay at !Xaus Lodge. The settings is just magical. The lodge is perched on one of the Kalahari desert's red dunes overlooking a massive dry pan. The food was great with many local dishes being served to us. We stayed there in the beginning of August and the days were perfect, not too hot or too cold, but the nights can get very chilly so make sure to bring warm clothes. The game drives, walks and quiet moments on my deck were my favourite parts of the stay. The game walks are guided by a local San Bushman and his knowledge and stories of the local animals, plants and insects are fascinating! Would recommend this place to anyone looking for an out of the way location. Stay for at least 3 nights if your itinerary will allow, as it takes you a while to get into the relaxed swing of things. Room 12 has one of the best views of the sunsets and sunrises.

    by BookVictoriaFalls, 10/25/11

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